What is the timeframe Aw has to provide written approval for local advertising materials submitted by the franchisee?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Prior to your use of them, samples of all local advertising, marketing and promotional materials not prepared or previously approved by us, and all proposed content for any Internet or social media advertising or promotion, must be submitted to us for approval.
If you do not receive our written approval within thirty (30) days from the date we receive the materials, the materials will be deemed to have been disapproved.
You may not use any advertising or promotional materials that we have disapproved.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 39–40)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must submit all local advertising, marketing, and promotional materials not already prepared or approved by Aw for approval. This includes proposed content for any Internet or social media advertising or promotion. Aw then has thirty (30) days from the date they receive these materials to provide written approval.
If Aw does not provide written approval within this 30-day timeframe, the materials are considered disapproved. The franchisee is then prohibited from using any advertising or promotional materials that Aw has disapproved. This means franchisees need to plan ahead and submit materials well in advance of when they intend to use them to allow time for the approval process.
This approval process is fairly standard in franchising, as it allows Aw to maintain brand consistency and ensure that all advertising is in line with their standards. Franchisees should factor this approval timeline into their marketing plans to avoid delays or the need to rework materials. It is also important for franchisees to understand Aw's advertising standards to minimize the risk of disapproval.